What exactly is radon, and how can it affect homeowners? Radon is a radioactive gas that is produced by the natural decay of uranium found in soil, rock, and water. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, which makes it even harder to detect. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. with an estimated 21,000 deaths annually.
The EPA estimates that nearly one in every 15 homes in the United States has elevated radon levels. However, the prevalence of radon gas in the Upper Midwest is considerably higher than the rest of the country. This is due to the region’s unique geological makeup, which has higher concentrations of uranium in the soil.
The good news is that a radon mitigation system can help reduce the levels of radon in your home. But how does it work?
Understanding How Radon Enters Your Home
Radon can enter your home through cracks in the foundation, walls, and floors, as well as gaps around pipes and cables. It can also come through your water supply if you have a private well. Once it enters your home, it can build up to dangerous levels that can cause serious health problems. That’s why it’s so important to have your home tested for radon levels regularly, especially if you live in an area with a high concentration of uranium or other radioactive elements.
How Does a Radon Mitigation System Work?
A radon mitigation system is designed to reduce the levels of radon in your home by redirecting it outside. The system consists of a set of pipes that are installed into the foundation or slab of your home. A fan is then installed in the piping system, which creates a negative pressure zone under your home. This negative pressure zone effectively draws radon from the soil before it can enter your home, and safely vents it outside of your home, usually through the roof.
Types of Radon Mitigation Systems
There are different types of radon mitigation systems to choose from, depending on your home’s construction and the level of radon you want to reduce. The most common system is called a sub-slab depressurization system which works best for houses that have basements, crawlspaces or slab-on-grade foundations. Another type of system is the sub-membrane depressurization system which is primarily used in homes that have crawlspaces and exposed soil. It works by installing a barrier under the floor, covering exposed soil and installing a fan to draw air from beneath the membrane.
The Importance of Professional Installation
A professional radon mitigation company will be certified and have the necessary equipment to properly diagnose and install the system that is most effective for your particular home. They will also have access to specialized tools and techniques that will help ensure that the project is safe and effective. Moreover, the professionals will conduct post-installation tests to make sure the radon levels have been reduced to a safe level.
The Environmental Protection Agency of the US Government recognizes only two Radon Certification companies – The NRPP and the NRSB. Standard Water Control Systems is an NRPP Certified Radon Mitigation Company.
The NRPP is an independent administrative program of the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists, Inc. (AARST), the NRPP holds the ISO 17024 ANSI accreditation and is governed by a Certification Council consisting of radon industry stakeholders who are responsible for credentialing policies and procedures.
Standard Water is a Certified Radon Mitigation Specialist. The NRPP Radon Mitigation Specialist Certification is for those who evaluate radon measurements and design and install radon remediation systems. A Radon Mitigation Specialist is responsible for the implementation, execution, and documentation of all required Quality Management and Worker Safety procedures and may provide general supervision Radon Mitigation Installers within the same company.
To obtain this two-year certification, the National Radon Proficiency Program requires:
- Completion of a 16-hour Radon Measurement Professional Initial Training Course from an approved training provider as a prerequisite
- Completion of a 24-hour Radon Mitigation Specialist Exam-Prep Course from an approved training provider
- Passing score on the NRPP Mitigation Specialist Exam
- 16 hours of continuing education biennially
- Adherence to the NRPP Code of Ethics & Certification Terms
The Benefits of Installing a Radon Mitigation System
Installing a radon mitigation system in your home can provide numerous benefits, the most obvious of which is a significant reduction in the level of radon gas in your home. This means that you and your family can breathe easier, knowing that you’re protected from a potential carcinogen. Additionally, it can contribute to the overall value of your home, as it can be considered a safety feature that prospective buyers are looking for. Lastly, a radon mitigation system can help prevent future health problems caused by long-term exposure to radon gas.
Conclusion
Radon mitigation systems are designed to protect your home and family from the harmful effects of radon gas. They offer numerous benefits, including reducing the risk of lung cancer, enhancing the resale value of your home, and protecting your health and well-being. If you think your home is at risk for radon exposure, don’t hesitate to have it tested. Standard Water is a certified radon mitigation company. Contact us today for a free radon test kit and no obligation consultation.